Prashanth Menon, Tesla’s India head and Chairman of Tesla India Motors and Energy Pvt. Ltd., has resigned just as the company prepares for its long-anticipated entry into the Indian market. According to Bloomberg, Menon stepped down for “personal reasons” after nearly nine years with Tesla. His exit coincides with crucial developments, including the company leasing its first showroom in Mumbai and expanding its hiring efforts across India.
While Tesla has not commented officially, its China-based team will temporarily manage India operations until a replacement is appointed. Menon had been instrumental in laying Tesla’s groundwork in India, including setting up its local entity in Pune in 2021 and scouting metro cities for potential sales and service outlets.
Tesla plans to launch its Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) in India by August 2025, beginning with 10,000 units of imported Model 3 and Model Y vehicles from its Berlin plant. Initially, these will enter India as Completely Built Units (CBUs). Sources indicate Tesla could increase its India allocation if the government relaxes current EV import policies, which allow 8,000 units at a 15% duty under the condition of local manufacturing commitment.
Menon’s departure adds a leadership gap at a pivotal moment in Tesla’s India strategy.
